About the Malcolm X Memorial Foundation

Oct 1, 2022

Opera Omaha is partnering with the Malcolm X Memorial Foundation for resources and community programming surrounding
X, the Life and Times of Malcolm X.

MISSION
The Malcolm X Memorial Foundation is focused on preserving the human rights legacy of Malcolm X (El Hajj Malik El-Shabazz) while prioritizing self-reliance & determination through radical movement building.

VISION
We aim to educate with a focus on the African Diaspora and providing liberation through incubation of grassroots transformative programming. We envision an empowered community of self and family, thriving in equity; Leading as a creative common ground for Afro-American centered action-oriented activism and leadership development.

VALUES
Our core values are rooted in: civic engagement, direct action, economic empowerment, scholarship and service; and liberation of the human spirit.

HISTORY
The Malcolm X Memorial Foundation sits on an oasis of 17-acre private property grown from the legacy of the founder Rowena Moore in 1971. Registered with the Nebraska Historical Society as an official destination in 1984. The historic grounds are accessible via 3448 Evans Street, Omaha, Nebraska.

Founder- Mrs. Rowena Moore
Mrs. Rowena Moore founded the Malcolm X Memorial Foundation in 1971 working alone, using her money to stage events commemorating his birth and death. She dreamed of constructing a major educational and cultural institution at his birth home in Omaha, Nebraska.

Her family owned 5 lots including the place of his birth home. By the early 80’s, supporters began planning for big things and in 1983 the Foundation was incorporated. A historical marker was placed in 1987. That same year, with the support of the Shabazz family and Omaha community members, Mrs. Moore purchased the surrounding 10 acres.

She is remembered for her many years of service to the North Omaha community. Active on the political scene, her aspirations lead her to become the first Black woman to run for the Omaha City Council.

Being moved and inspired by listening to many of Brother Malcolm’s speeches on the radio, Mrs. Moore became interested in starting an organization upon Malcolm’s return from his trip to Mecca.

We intend to honor this great African American, this great Omahan by constructing a memorial at 3448 Pinkney Street, the site of his birth home in Omaha, Nebraska. This land that belonged to the family of one of history’s most famous leaders, is now in the care of the Malcolm X Memorial Foundation.

Our founder envisioned a Malcolm X Birthplace International Center, tourist attraction and learning center, a park, museum, library and amphitheater. In 2010 The Foundation acquired the former Jehovah’s Witness Church, which now serves as the main visitors facility.

Present day, the foundation serves as a cultural beacon in the heart of North Omaha offering educational tours, civic engagement trainings, outdoor event space and the annual celebration of Malcolm X’s birthday held during the week of May 19th. It operates optimally with an eleven-seat board of directors in collaboration with the executive director, staff and local volunteers.

Find us online:
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